Ever wondered what the future of female racing looks like? Strap on your seatbelts, because F1 Academy is here to deliver. Launched in 2023, this isn’t just another racing series; it’s a launchpad, a crucible, a revolution. Spearheaded by the dynamic Susie Wolff, F1 Academy is on a mission: to propel female drivers into the upper echelons of motorsport.
Think of it as the ultimate finishing school for aspiring F1 stars. At a Formula 4 level, drivers get something priceless: track time. Lots of it. Add to that expert coaching in technical, physical and mental preparedness, and you’ve got a recipe for success. Champions like Marta García and Abbi Pulling have already proven the formula works, earning fully funded seats in higher series. Talk about a fast track to your dreams!
Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty.
Who’s Racing for F1 Academy?
This year, the grid expands to a thrilling 18 cars, a jump from the previous 15. Six teams, including the newly joined Hitech TGR, are battling it out: ART Grand Prix, Campos Racing, MP Motorsport, PREMA Racing, Rodin Motorsport and Hitech TGR. Each team fields three drivers, all aged between 16 and 25.
And the talent? It’s electric. Every F1 team has nominated a driver, with the remaining spots filled by partnerships with brands like American Express, Charlotte Tilbury, PUMA, Tommy Hilfiger and TAG Heuer. You’ll see familiar names like Doriane Pin (Mercedes), Chloe Chambers (Red Bull) and Maya Weug (Ferrari) alongside exciting newcomers.
What’s a Wild Card?
Imagine a wildcard entry at your favourite sporting event. That’s what we have here. Introduced in 2024, Wild Card entries give regional talent a chance to shine. This year, Hitech TGR will field the Wild Card at every round, meaning they’ll be in the points hunt. And yes, those Wild Card appearances are proving to be a fantastic way to get noticed, with several drivers earning full-time seats.
Where’s the Action in F1 Academy?
Get ready for a global tour! The 2025 calendar features seven rounds across six countries, all supporting the Formula 1 World Championship. We’re talking iconic tracks: Shanghai (season opener!), Jeddah, Miami, Montreal, Zandvoort (a series staple), Singapore, and the grand finale in Las Vegas. That’s 14 races of pure adrenaline.
How Does a Race Weekend Work?
Think F1, but with a twist. Weekends kick off with Free Practice, followed by a crucial 30-minute Qualifying session. Then comes the fun part: Race 1 is a reverse grid race, flipping the top eight qualifiers. Race 2? That’s the traditional start based on qualifying times.
Points, Points, Points!
Drivers can bag a maximum of 39 points per weekend, while teams aim for 86. Every point counts. Fastest laps, pole positions and those crucial race finishes all contribute to the championship chase.
The Machines
It’s a single-make series, meaning everyone’s in the same boat. Tatuus T421 Formula 4 cars, powered by Autotecnica engines, deliver 174 horsepower and speeds of up to 240 km/h. Think of them as the perfect tools for these rising stars.
2025 F1 Academy Teams and Drivers
To give you the rundown here are the team rosters.
Prema Racing
Rodin Motorsport
Campos Racing
MP Motorsport
Art Grand Prix
Hitech TGR
F1 Academy is more than just racing; it’s about empowerment, opportunity and the relentless pursuit of dreams. Get ready for a season of thrilling action, fierce competition and the dawn of a new era in motorsport.
Check out the F1 Academy schedule here.
